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Tribe recalls House for start in finale

6/3/14: T.J. House pitches 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four

By Jordan Bastian
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MLB.com |

SEATTLE -- By manager Terry Francona's standards, the Indians returned to a typical bullpen configuration Sunday.

Prior to the finale of Cleveland's three-game series against the Mariners at Safeco Field, the club optioned left-hander Nick Hagadone back to Triple-A Columbus. The move allowed the Indians to officially recall lefty T.J. House from Triple-A in order to start against Seattle.

The transaction dropped Francona's relief corps to eight arms, which has been the norm this season for the Indians. Asked if he was upset about no longer having nine relievers in the bullpen, Francona cracked a smile.

"I know that we laugh about it a lot," Francona said, "but then I look at our guys' appearances. ... You're trying to complement each guy and also not overdo it. Having that extra arm, when possible, really helps."

Hagadone was called up from Triple-A on Wednesday in the wake of Cleveland's 14-inning loss to the D-backs on Tuesday. In six appearances for the Indians this season, the 28-year-old lefty had a 6.00 ERA with four strikeouts and two walks in three innings. Hagadone has a 5.60 ERA in 78 big league games in parts of four seasons with the Tribe.

"Hags was really good [about being sent down]," Francona said. "He understood that this wasn't about how he pitched. It was more than we had a chance for an extra guy for a while, and he was it. Now, go back to Triple-A and keep doing your job. I actually think Hags is starting to understand himself. I think he's making it a point and he's kind of tackling things head on, which is really good, because there's a lot to like."

House made his sixth start this season for the Indians in his third stint in the Majors. In his previous five starts this season, House has posted a 5.06 ERA, allowing 15 earned runs in 26 2/3 innings. His most recent outing came against Boston on June 14 when he lasted 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs.